W123 turbo starter removal procedure

[funola]

I just r&r'ed the starter motor in my 83 300D turbo for the second time and took notes of steps taken and tools used so that if I ever have to do it again years down the road, it would save me time. I am documenting it here for my benefit as well as others. There are other ways to do this job using other tools that's documented here with lot's of pics.


My procedure is not picture intensive (only 2) and may not work for you unless you have the same tools.

Here's a crucial tool for loosening and tightening the top bolt. A box GearWrench on a 1/2" long 10 mm allen key cutoff. This is about the lowest profile tool one can come up with to get into the tight spot of the top bolt from above. Others have used a 2 foot long 1/2" drive extension on a ratchet via the transmission tunnel. When I saw how oily and dirty my transmission was, I found this method very unappealing and sought other means. I also do not own long 1/2" drive extensions.